Internet Access and Use

Four public computers are located in Youth Services on the second floor, equipped with filtering software. These computers are available for use by adults, and to youths with an Internet Use Permission Form on file, signed by a parent or legal guardian.

Ten public desktop computers and an Express laptop with Internet access are located in the Adult Department on the third floor. One of them is equipped with ZoomText software, an adjustable-height desk, and a trackball pointing device to assist handicapped patrons. Two of them are connected to flatbed scanners, and a Magic Wand scanner is available for use with any computer. A twelfth desktop computer without Internet access is loaded with word processing and productivity software. Two more desktop computers in the Local History & Genealogy Room are connected to ScanPro digital microfilm/microfiche equipment, used principally to research the library’s newspaper microfilm collection.

All public computers are networked to printers located at the Adult Reference desk. Printouts cost 15¢ per page in black & white and 30¢ each in color. Public computers in the Adult Department are available for use by adults, and to youths with an Internet Use Permission Form on file, signed by a parent or legal guardian, that permits use of unfiltered computers.

Internet Access and Use- Teens/Children

Children age 16 or younger may use the library’s public computers with Internet access, if he/she has an Internet Use Permission Form with parent/legal guardian signature on file with the library. On that form, a parent/guardian has two options to choose from: either permit the child to use only filtered computers in the Youth Services Department, or permit the child to also use unfiltered computers in the Adult Department. Forms are available at all service desks.

Four public computers are located in Youth Services on the second floor, equipped with filtering software. These computers are available for use by adults, and to youths with an Internet Use Permission Form on file, signed by a parent or legal guardian.

Ten public desktop computers and an Express laptop with Internet access are located in the Adult Department on the third floor. One of them is equipped with ZoomText software, an adjustable-height desk, and a trackball pointing device to assist handicapped patrons. Two of them are connected to flatbed scanners, and a Magic Wand scanner is available for use with any computer. A twelfth desktop computer without Internet access is loaded with word processing and productivity software. Two more desktop computers in the Local History & Genealogy Room are connected to ScanPro digital microfilm/microfiche equipment, used principally to research the library’s newspaper microfilm collection.

All public computers are networked to printers located at the Adult Reference desk. Printouts cost 15¢ per page in black & white and 30¢ each in color. Public computers in the Adult Department are available for use by adults, and to youths with an Internet Use Permission Form on file, signed by a parent or legal guardian, that permits use of unfiltered computers.

Computer Coaching

Some libraries offer computer classes. However, we believe that, because everyone has different experiences and skills, why settle for a one-size-fits-all approach? In our Computer Coaching sessions, we won’t talk at you—we’ll work with you, in an informal and private setting, to make you more comfortable with computers and help you make them work for you. We’ll let you tap the keys and move the mouse, and learn at your speed.

Some people call themselves “computer illiterate.” NO ONE IS COMPUTER ILLITERATE. It’s just that no one has taken the time to help these folks get comfortable with a computer, what it does, and how it happens. We have the patience to help you find out what computers are about, and to begin developing skills you can practice to make computers do what you want them to.

When there are multiple Computer Coachees in a session, everybody gets their turn of personal attention. Often, your neighbor has the same questions as you, so you can learn from each other. Sometimes coachees come just to lurk—that’s computerese for observing what others are learning!

Most Computer Coachees want to learn how to do stuff on the Internet, but we’ve shown folks how to manage (move and delete) files on a computer, or move pictures or other files between digital cameras, USB drives, other devices, and a computer . We can get you an email or Facebook account—and show you how to use it.

We’ve helped folks apply for jobs, sell their stuff on Craigslist, find out how Google and other search engines work, and even play with documents and spreadsheets in Microsoft Word and Excel! If you don’t have your own computer, we have laptop computers set up for you, but many Computer Coachees bring in their own computer. Often, these folks have gotten a computer as a gift from a child or grandchild, who then goes back home and can’t help them from a distance. We’ll get comfortable—with your computer or ours!

So, whether you’re an experienced user that wants to learn new skills, or a complete newbie trying to turn one on, our one-on-one Computer Coaching sessions have something for everyone. We can even cover Windows 8 issues. You can even win for coming to Computer Coaching! One attendee each month wins a doorprize, a USB drive, compliments of the Friends of T.B. Scott Library and Merrill Radio Shack. We’ll be happy to show you how to use it!

Computer Coaching sessions are held one week a month. Visit the library’s Calendar for the complete schedule. If those times don’t work for you, we can arrange a session at your convenience. Contact the library at 715-536-7191 for more details.

eBook Coaching

Learn how to take advantage of the library’s eBook and AudioBook subscription service OverDrive. Our coaching sessions offer you the opportunity to sit one-on-one with a librarian. Learn at your own pace in a stress free environment. Be sure to bring your device! Classes are generally the first Thursday of the month at 1pm and the second Thursday of the month at 6pm. Come as often as you like. Visit the library’s calendar for complete schedule. Contact the library at 715-536-7191 for more details.

Wifi Internet Hotspots

T.B. Scott Free Library has taken the next leap in bringing technology to the Merrill community—mobile WiFi HotSpot devices are now available to check out.

WiFi HotSpots enable you to connect up to ten mobile-enabled devices, such as laptops, smartphones or tablets, to the Internet. They’re as portable as you are—so you can be online at home, in the park, or on vacation.

Library Director Stacy Stevens explains that “the new Mobile WiFi Hotspots are an extension of the free WiFi available at the library for years.” Four of the devices are available to check out for a week at a time, while one unit is being used for library outreach.

Public libraries across the country are now making mobile WiFi available to the public. It’s part of a national trend of public libraries expanding their services beyond traditional lending of books, DVDs and CDs. According to a recent National League of Cities report:

“These lending programs perform a critical role: in addition to providing basic broadband access to low-income residents, they allow patrons to access free e-books and other digital library resources, and they enable users to complete online job applications and perform other critical web-based processes at home. Outreach efforts are also aimed at the elderly and disabled, who often need access to healthcare information.”

Visit or call the library at 715-536-7191 for more information about checking out a mobile WiFi HotSpot.